This photo has to be one of the most unusual in our collection. It features a group of robed or costumed women, a man with a skull and cross bones, and a goat. Historic photos really don’t get any better. Unfortunately, it was not identified in any way. It may be a fraternal organization or possibly a theatrical production of some sort. Whatever it is, there must be a good story associated with it. Do you know the tale behind this photo?

Help us! Our local history photograph collection is a wonderful resource, but unfortunately not every photo comes to us with full details of the place, people, or date associated with it. For that reason, we are enlisting your help. Watch our local history blog posts in the coming weeks for photographs that we could use a little assistance with. We’ll tell you what we know and you can respond if you have any ideas. But even if you don’t, be sure to take a minute to enjoy some of our interesting old photos. View all photos in this “unidentified” series.

This photo has to be one of the most unusual in our collection. It features a group of robed or costumed women, a man with a skull and cross bones, and a goat. Historic photos really don’t get any better. Unfortunately, it was not identified in any way. It may be a fraternal organization or possibly a theatrical production of some sort. Whatever it is, there must be a good story associated with it. Do you know the tale behind this photo?

Help us! Our local history photograph collection is a wonderful resource, but unfortunately not every photo comes to us with full details of the place, people, or date associated with it. For that reason, we are enlisting your help. Watch our local history blog posts in the coming weeks for photographs that we could use a little assistance with. We’ll tell you what we know and you can respond if you have any ideas. But even if you don’t, be sure to take a minute to enjoy some of our interesting old photos. View all photos in this “unidentified” series.

These people may be members of the Order of the Eastern Star.Posted by: M. K. Asenbauer ( Email ) at 7/2/2012 6:23 AM

I enjoyed seeing most of the historic photos; however, I am offended by the blackface images near the end of the slide show and think they should be removed. Thank you.Posted by: Gwinette Hill ( Email ) at 12/13/2012 2:25 PM

Thanks, Gwinette, we appreciate your concern. Occasionally, our local history essays and news items contain imagery and language that some readers may find offensive. The topics and illustrations used reflect the attitudes and beliefs of earlier times, and are included for historical accuracy, significance and context. They do not reflect the values and beliefs of the author(s), Kalamazoo Public Library, or library staff.Posted by: keith ( Email ) at 12/13/2012 4:31 PM